United failed to qualify for the Champions League for the first time since 1995, became the first champions to slump to seventh since Blackburn Rovers in 1996, were eliminated from both domestic cup competitions in January, sacked their first manager in 17-and-a-half years and were humiliated by both Liverpool and Manchester City home and away.

"Erm..." Neville, on Sky Sports' season review show, pondered. "You've had a long time to think about that one," remarked Graeme Souness.